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November 4, 2003 Contact: Bonnie Widerburg (503) 731-4180, cell phone (503) 572-7689 Technical Contact: Terry Lindsey (503) 731-4014, cell phone (503) 407-4256 Public health officials seek recovery of stolen radiation-containing device Public health officials at the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) are seeking recovery of a radiation-containing gauge. It was stolen from the back of a truck last night or this morning and reported to Tualatin Police late this afternoon. The gauge is the same model as one that was lost and recovered last year in the Portland metropolitan area. Terry Lindsey, manager of Radiation Protection Services, DHS, said the missing equipment is a bright yellow Troxler Model 3440 nuclear gauge (Serial Number 34418) that has two radiation sources, both contained inside a lead shield. "The gauge is carried in a bright yellow heavy plastic box marked with radiation labels," he said. The gauge, used in road construction testing, was chained and locked in the back of a Red 1994 GMC pickup from a Southwest Portland apartment complex last night or this morning, according to Lindsey. "We are concerned that the gauge could be discarded anywhere by the persons who stole the gauge," said Lindsey. "Anyone who may find this device should not try to open its locking mechanisms. Improper use of the device can result in exposure to dangerous levels of radiation," he said. When properly used by trained operators, the gauge is very safe to use, Lindsey said. Anyone having questions about the device may contact radiation protection staff in DHS at (503) 731-4014. Photos and information on the gauge and transport container are on the Web at www.troxlerlabs.com/3440.html and www.troxlerlabs.com/wheels.html |
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